Danna first used this blog to share news about her husband Mike's battle with a brain tumor. After Mike's death in July 06, the blog became Danna's place to process grief, reflect on the world, and share thoughts relating to her life and research on media and politics.

7.12.2006

Last night, they removed the back portion of Mike's skull in a hemicraniotomy. Upon return from the OR, he was borderline code blue-- with his mean arterial pressure (MAP), a form of blood pressure, dropping down into the 30s (normal is between 80 and 90). They got it back up with vasopressors which help send all the blood to the vital organs. After that he was actually somewhat responsive, squeezing my hand in response to "I love you," and even gently nodding when I said, "Can you see me?" and "Do you want a kiss?"

I returned to Sasha and Dee's house to sleep at midnight. At 6am, I got a call from John Birknis, the resident who we've known since November. Mike was code blue. No pulse. They used panels on hi, and got him back. Now he's on almost maximum vasopressors, his bed tilted backwards to send blood to his brain. His heart rate is in the 150s right now and the MAP is okay (due to the meds). He's on a ventilator and has numerous lines (a swan line and an arterial line?). He is considered critical and today is a touch and go day... it is very possible that he could code again, but once again we just wait and see.

One of the fears is that when he was coding at 6am, the lack of a heartbeat could mean that Mike's brain was without oxygen for a time. This could have caused brain damage. We just don't know.

Lonia (Mike's Mom) arrived last night and got to see Mike and is here at the hospital now. Mike's sister, Diana, is flying in this afternoon.

I am sitting here with the babies, letting them watch ernie and bert. I can't think of anything but you guys. What I want so much for both of you is just some peace. I am so angry at this situation and the big SFT and all its complications.

My beautiful vision of the future in this, our universe: Mike, Danna, and extended family (blood/adopted relatives) watching Baxter grow up, graduate from medical school, and fall in love. Much, much, much later Baxter will receive a Nobel for his craniopharyngioma cure. Baxter’s kids, proud elderly parents (holding hands), and ancient extended family leaning on their canes and walkers celebrate the event. This is the only acceptable outcome: Mike in the future with all of us. I am holding my breath, my fingers are crossed, I am praying…

Of course I can't predict Mike's future any more than anyone else, but I know that you are strong and that you will survive this gut-wrenching ordeal. No one should have to endure the agony of so much uncertainty, but I know you have the personal strength, and the circle of family and friends that will make it possible for you to flourish in life no matter what is put in front of you. Of this I am certain.

Danna--We have nothing but the deepest admiration for your courage and devotion. Our thoughts have been there for Mike and his strong will to fight. Just hang in there. Aunt Alice and Uncle Martie from San Francisco

Danna, We are praying for you. With all the marvels of modern medicine- the greatest indicator is the strength and will to live of the patient. You guys have that it spades... We are thinking of you and pulling for Mike and his incredible spirit.love,Rachel, Peter & Nate

About Me

Danna, 38, earned her PhD in communication at the University of Pennsylvania and is now on the faculty of the University of Delaware. In July 2006, her talented husband, Mike Young, died after a nine month battle with a brain tumor.

Through the process of his illness and death, Danna found meaning in her own life and strength - in loved ones and in herself. She is the mother to their 9 year old son, Baxter. In May 2009, Danna married the loving and witty PJ Gallagher. In 2010, PJ adopted Baxter (who has called PJ "dad" since 2008), and the couple welcomed baby Edie Eileen Young Gallagher into the world in May 2010.